SNOWMINE - "DIALECTS"

Artist: Snowmine  

Album: Dialects

Label: Mystery Buildings (Self-released)

Release Date: February 24^th, 2014

Review By: Sean Kayden

Taking the alternative route of self-releasing their sophomore album, “Dialects,” Snowmine’s follow-up to their underrated debut record “Laminate Pet Animal” is a different kind of an animal entirely.  This new perspective has the band entering into a brooding territory. In fact, with these eleven brand new tracks, the band feels more comfortable and determined than ever before. While the first album was completely unique in its own right, it was a bit all over the place. It was really good, but felt very much like a debut record. A little bit misguided. “Dialects” displays Snowmine in a different light. The many talents of the band are put forth on this record. There is sort of an experimental element to the album, which was recorded in a church. A lot of ambience is presented and weird quirks/sounds to give it a unique experience unlike other indie acts in the same arena. While “Dialects” is far from the perfect indie rock album, it’s still a solid, if a bit uneven entry that shouldn’t be ignored or missed.

One of the best tracks of the year is to be found here. “Plans” is an absolute delight. It has such a distinctive sound that makes it totally original from the band. When it breaks into the chorus, it just explodes into sheer beauty. For the most part, this is a slow tempo album. It combines interesting sounds along with Grayson Sanders’ sometimes crooning vocals. While the record doesn’t quite have that alluring element of being listend to over and over again, it’s the kind of record you come back to after a period of time away from it. Not every track is golden and some songs can be simply passed on. However, the tracks that do work, Plans,” “Columbus,” “You Want Everything,” ”Courts,” and “Dollar Divided” make the experience a memorable one for at least the time those tracks are playing. The other half the album is acceptable, but they take some chances that don’t always pay off accordingly. “Safety in an Open Mind” is purely instrumental. It can be considered an intermission track as we approach the second half of the album. It has these washed out effects. It’s a peaceful tune, but doesn’t push the album any forward.

“Dialects,” for the most part, has a laid-back sound. The instruments are eclectic and despite some less than stellar tunes, Snowmine aren’t trying to mimic anyone. They’re completely original. Perhaps, the tunes that don’t resonate first or second time need some more listens before you can actually appreciate them. The  problem with music today is how one might not want to give songs a chance when there’s just too much music to hold onto from the moment you hear it. At any rate, Snowmine is an underrated band that is trying to press forward and make a name for themselves. While the path they may be on seems a bit crowded, they definitely have the aptitude to find a way around in order to finally find that open road. Once there, there’s no telling what Snowmine can do, but I know I’ll be carefully watching to see where it ultimately leads them.

Key Tracks: “Columbus,” “You Want Everything.” “Plans,” “Courts”

Grade: 7.2 out of 10